Conservation Properties

Conservation Properties

Preserving wild lands is an important function of environmental organizations. NANPS currently owns two conservation properties: Shining Tree Woods in the Carolinian zone of southern Ontario and Zinkan Cove on the west shore of the Bruce Peninsula on Lake Huron. Both properties offer unique gifts and distinct challenges.

Maintaining conservation lands is a prodigious responsibility but the rewards are equally great. While relatively small, NANPS properties are home to a number of rare flora and fauna and we are justifiably proud of our efforts to protect them.

If NANPS is to continue adequately managing these lands, however, we need your help.

Zinkan Cove Inspection Tour, May 2013

On May 25th 2013 three board members (John, Alice and Miriam) visited the NANPS conservation property at Zinkan cove. We were accompanied by four other NANPS members, and led by Bob Barnett and Bill from the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy.

It was a cool day, but with bright sunshine and no bugs! We entered the property by a snowmobile trail that comes out into Georgian Bay at the north-west corner of the NANPS property. The trail itself was interesting, as there were columbines and gaywings (fringed polygala) in bloom.

Zinkan Island Cove

This 12 acre (5 hectare) alvar on the west shore of the Bruce Peninsula was brought to NANPS attention by then Treasurer, Trish Murphy, in 2003. The purchase was brokered by the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy, which now holds an environmental easement on the property.

Undeveloped shoreline is very rare on Lake Huron. Although the property is a designated Area of Natural or Scientific Interest (ANSI), the threat of development encroachment was very real.

Shining Tree Woods

In October 1992, NANPS, then the Canadian Wildflower Society, had the opportunity of purchasing of rare piece of Carolinian forest in Norfolk County Ontario. With the help of a $10,000 grant from the Ontario Heritage Foundation, a large donation from an anonymous donor, and the stalwart fund-raising efforts of our members, we were able to acquire this amazing woodland.

Favourite Wildflowers and Shrubs

Recent Initiatives

Volunteering

NANPS is a volunteer-operated organization. Virtually everything we achieve is through the efforts of volunteers. The more assistance offered by our members, the more we can accomplish together. If you have some time to give...even just occasionally...you can help. Read More...

NANPS Seed Exchange

The 2017 - 2018 Seedex list is available for viewing at Native Plant Seed Exchange!
The NANPS Seed Exchange is open to all members across the continent and relies on your participation. If you are not yet a member, you may join online now or include your membership form with your seed request....Read More